Milk Sold In NJ Recalled

STATE — The New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs has advised consumers that Midland Farms, located in Menands, New York, has voluntarily recalled certain milk products due to the potential of improper pasteurization.

Proper pasteurization heats milk in order to effectively eliminate all pathogenic bacteria, such as Listeria and Salmonella. Recalled products were sold in New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island.

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The recalled milk products are all sold in plastic containers and are marketed under the brand names Midland Farms, Corrado’s Market, Jersey Dairy Farms and Trade Fair Premium. They all possess the plant code 36-1661. The products also possess a black ink date code near the top of the container. The products involved in this recall include:

The Division has learned that the problem was detected by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets’ milk inspectors during an inspection on September 7, 2010 when they found a failure of pasteurization equipment at the Menands milk plant. While the recalled products have not been found to be contaminated with any harmful pathogens, the company has determined to voluntarily recall all production as a precautionary measure.

Following New York’s announcement of this recall, the Division today contacted the New Jersey Department of Health to determine which food stores operating in New Jersey were known to have received deliveries of the recalled milk products. According to the Department of Health, it has identified at least 38 stores in New Jersey which are known to have received the products and it has alerted local health departments to promptly inspect these stores to ensure that the affected products are not sold. Consumers who have purchased any of the recalled products should return them to the place of purchase or discard them.

No illnesses have been reported to date to in connection with this problem. Consumers are warned not to use or consume the recalled products even if it does not appear or smell spoiled.

Consumers with questions may contact Midland Farms directly at 518-436-7038.